From Behind the Scenes to On-Camera Confidence with Melissa Mahtani (CNN, CBS News)

How do you make the leap from producer to on-camera journalist — and do it with confidence? In this episode of Unknown to Known, Jamie Maglietta sits down with Melissa Mahtani, an international journalist, host, and moderator who’s worked at CNN, CBS News, and on global stages including the UN.

Melissa shares her path from behind the scenes to the spotlight, and what it takes to: ✔️ Find your voice and own it on camera

✔️ Define your “why” before chasing press or media attention

✔️ Moderate engaging panels that spark real conversation

✔️ Balance authenticity with preparation in front of an audience If you’ve ever wondered how to confidently step into the spotlight — whether for media interviews, panels, or your own content — Melissa’s insights will inspire you to start now.

Quotes to Listen Out For:

• “The moment you define your why, the camera stops being intimidating.”

• “Authenticity is your greatest production value.”

• “Preparation breeds confidence — the camera becomes your ally when you’re ready.”

🔗 Connect with Melissa Mahtani

🌐 Website: https://www.melissamahtani.com

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissamahtani

🎙️ Contact Your Host, Jamie Maglietta

🌐 Website & Course: https://www.oncamready.com

📲 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/get_oncamready

📺 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamie-maglietta/

🛒 Shop My Gear Amazon Storefront (camera, lighting, audio & more):

👉 https://www.amazon.com/shop/influencer-943ce2a2/list/2QJDU87FR82CK?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsflist_2QY6SEB5K2N3H0TRN5E8

🎧 Podcast with Riverside.fm @Riversidefm Record your podcast in studio-quality with Riverside.fm.

👉 https://riverside.fm

💸 Use code OCR15 for 15% off

Thanks to Cesar Marin for submitting a question.

Visit his website: cultivatingwisdom.net

To submit a question for a podcast guest email: [email protected]

✨ If this episode gave you courage to step on camera, like, comment, and subscribe to Unknown to Known for new episodes every Tuesday. Bonus Episodes, called The Greenroom Pep Talks, drop on Thursdays.

Chapters:

00:00 – Intro & Finding Your Niche
01:12 – Welcome to Unknown to Known
02:18 – Melissa’s Career in Journalism & Production
03:49 – From Producer to On-Camera Confidence
06:20 – Riverside.fm Shoutout
07:11 – Cringe-Worthy On-Camera Moments
10:53 – Lessons from Early Career Mistakes
11:14 – Creating Confidence Through Content
11:45 – Melissa’s Current Work & International Focus
12:40 – How to Identify Your Expertise
15:16 – Covering Misinformation at CBS
17:27 – Behind the Scenes of Producing & Teamwork
19:07 – Why Melissa Should Have Her Own Show
19:35 – Advice for Experts Entering New Media
20:07 – Knowing Your “Why” Before Going On Camera
21:15 – The Role of Authenticity in Media
22:23 – Childhood Dreams & Confidence Journey
24:25 – Finding Confidence as Adults
25:52 – Brooklyn Prince’s Inspiring Advice
28:00 – Listener Question from Cesar Marin
29:18 – Tips for Engaging Panel Moderation
31:00 – Being Prepared but Willing to Pivot
33:01 – How to Avoid Boring Panels
34:32 – Panels as Learning Opportunities
35:34 – Social Media, Disinformation & Misinformation
37:15 – Practical Tips for Content Creators
38:05 – Lessons from Facebook Live & Early New Media
38:46 – The Future of Media & Journalism
40:32 – Closing Thoughts & Where to Find Melissa
41:35 – Green Room Pep Talk Preview
42:11 – Outro & Stay Connected

 Cesar Marin :